A glare free, self-cleaning, hydrophobic, non-reflective glass has been developed by researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

A glare free, self-cleaning, hydrophobic, non-reflective glass has been developed by researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

The technology is based on a nano sized scale, and its special properties come from a microscopic landscape of conical spikes. These cones make the special glass resistant to fogging, glare and reflection. Additionally, they make the glass hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. It is so hydrophobic, in fact, that MIT released a video showing water droplets bouncing off the glass like beach balls.

The water resistant properties of this material cause it to be self-cleaning. Water, naturally rolling down the glass’s surface, collects and carries away dirt and dust particles, leaving a clean and shining screen.

Kyoo-Chul Park, co-author of the paper describing the new technology, explains that the glass will aid in increasing the efficiency of photovoltaic panels by reducing the amount of sunlight lost in reflection. In addition, researchers hope that the technology will help to improve other optical devices, including consumer electronics like cell phones and computer monitors.

From a consumer’s standpoint, the addition of this technology to the market would mean a vastly improved end experience. With a huge market for screen covers and other protection accessories to keep cell phones and other devices clean and glare free, this new glass could eliminate hassle and expense from the life of an average electronics user.

Consumers, however, may have to wait for some time before having access to such impeccable glass. The microscopic nature of the technology leaves its efficiency in question. More testing must be done to ensure that the glass is not too fragile to withstand the conditions of practical applications.